Dentist vs Orthodontist

A question you may be wondering is, "can my dentist give me braces?" The answer is a big NO! There is a major difference between an orthodontist and a dentist. We recognize that each patient has unique needs, and we pride ourselves in tailoring our treatment to meet these requirements.


At Apple Tree Orthodontics we utilize the latest technological advances in the profession to achieve unsurpassed results for our patients. In addition to “clear” braces, Invisalign clear aligners, and Teen Invisalign clear aligners, we offer low radiation digital radiography, and a “no impression” intra-oral scanner eliminating the need for traditional impressions. We have extensive experience in treating more complex cases which may require orthodontics in conjunction with jaw surgery. Our team works closely with several oral surgeons in the Boston area.


Dr. Polgrean and her highly trained staff have been creating beautiful smiles in Londonderry, Derry, Hudson, Salem, Manchester, Litchfield, Windham, Candia, Raymond, Hooksett, and surrounding areas for over 25 years.

What is Dental Wax?

When it comes to braces, your first few days may be uncomfortable. It may even feel as if your braces are sticking out. Your gums may be sore and tender, but that does not have to stop you from living your life.

An important item to use for relief is dental wax. Dental wax is “a soft, harmless gum protector for children and adults with braces that can be used in a pinch to cover brackets and protruding wires with a smooth surface,” according to Colgate. Dental wax can provide relief when a wire breaks and pokes out. Just add some dental wax on your gums and can help prevent pain while your wait for your next appointment.

Dental wax is completely safe.

Step 1: Be sure you have dental wax, you can ask us for recommendations on which we feel is best.
Step 2: Wash your hands.
Step 3: Brush your teeth, where you want to apply the dental wax
Step 4: Pinch off a piece of wax about the size of a small pea
Step 5: Squeeze until it softens and roll it into a ball, then flatten the ball slightly
Step 6: Gently push the wax onto the problem area of the braces


If you want to remove the dental wax, you can use floss. Be gentle, not to damage your teeth or gums. If you have any questions over dental wax, or any other orthodontic questions, please feel free to call us at (603) 434-0190

2 Smoothie Flavors for those with Braces

Congratulations on getting braces! Your on your way to a healthier beautiful smile. At first you may notice that your teeth and mouth feel a little tender or sore. This is perfectly normal and we promise your mouth will not be sore forever! The discomfort and soreness you are feeling is perfectly normal. Your teeth may be tender to biting pressures, which can make it tough to chew and eat solid food. Here are 2 delicious smoothie recipies that are delicious, healthy and filling.

1. Delicious Red Fruits and Oats Smoothie

This delicous smoothis will make it easy for you to consume, especially in your first few days after getting braces. The added oats, will fill you up.

1 cup sliced strawberries
1 sliced banana
1/4 cup raw almonds
1/2 cup old-fashioned oats
1 cup low-fat vanilla yogurt
1 teaspoon maple syrup

2. Peanut Butter, Banana and Flax Smoothie
This delicious combination will have you feeling full of creamy goodness. The yogurt and peanut butter will have you feeling full and the honey combined with bananas will leave you craving for more.

1/2 cup 1% low-fat milk
1/2 cup vanilla fat-free yogurt
2 tablespoons ground golden flaxseed
1 tablespoon creamy peanut butter
1 teaspoon honey
1/4 teaspoon vanilla extract
1 ripe banana, sliced

Right Age for Orthodontics:

Orthodontists today can successfully correct most problems regardless of the patient’s age. But that does not mean that the orthodontic treatment starting age does not matter. In fact it may play a significant role in the total time and expenses required for the completion of the orthodontic treatment.

Children: The magic number is 7! The American Association of Orthodontists (AAO) recommends that all children have a check-up with an orthodontist by the time they reach age 7, for early detection of any potential problems. At this stage, we can spot potential orthodontic problems related to jaw growth and eruption of adult teeth.

Teenagers: Most orthodontic problems are ideally treated during this time. Usually, all or most permanent teeth are present and patients are at one of their most active phases of growth. This is a great time to correct most problems, as the jaws are actively growing and their growth can be most easily modified during this time.

Adult: As we grow older, our teeth may shift and it may be necessary for an improved smile through orthodontic treatment. Healthy teeth can be moved at any age, and it is never too late to improve your smile.

Learn more about the right age for orthodontics, and give us a call if you have any questions at (603) 434-0190